The first batch of Porsche’s new 901 coupés were completed on 14 September 1964 and numerous running changes were implemented on these early models. By Christmas, 232 cars had been completed. Due to a legal battle regarding nomenclature with Peugeot, Porsche agreed to change the designation to ‘911’, but only for cars delivered to owners after 1 January 1965, as cars already under construction carried 901 badging. There are nearly a hundred differences between those built in 1964 and 1965, some obvious and some quite subtle, including interior, body and trim features.

Chassis 300082 is one of four new cars completed on 12 November 1964.The factory’s hand-written ledger for these 232 cars, as illustrated in Tobias Aichele’s Porsche 911, shows that it was assigned engine no. 900193. According to Robert Fleming of Minnesota, keeper of the Early 911 Registry, it appears that the engine was changed before the car left the factory, as 900193 had been allocated to chassis 300067, which was constructed several weeks earlier. Thus, this car was delivered to its first owner with engine no. 900192. It retains that engine today.

Delivered on 19 December to Porsche’s distributor Sonauto in Paris, the consignor states that he acquired 300082 from its third known owner in France. It was reconfigured for historic racing at the time, but complete with its original body panels and engine. A correct interior was sourced, complete with the aluminium framed steering wheel that is unique to these early cars. It has been comprehensively restored in its original colour of Enamel Blue, as listed on its factory Kardex. The interior is correct Black leatherette with charcoal carpets. The dashboard cover is screwed into place from the top, which was a detail changed on later cars. The original steel wheels are properly date-stamped ‘11-64’. It is supplied with each of its original registration documents.

Shown at the 2018 Zoute Concours d’Elegance, it is certainly ready to appear at other concours events. Extremely rare, this survivor from Porsche’s initial foray into a six-cylinder GT coupé would make a wonderful addition to any collection of important sports cars.